Plug Sockets

A switched socket has a rocker that cuts the supply without pulling the plug, while an unswitched socket is live whenever a plug is inserted. Unswitched sockets such as the CU7000U and SFR7000UMW suit appliances that stay on, often behind kitchen units with a separate switch; switched sockets such as the CU9000 are the everyday choice.

A double pole (DP) switch breaks the live and the neutral together when turned off, while a single pole switch breaks just the live. Knightsbridge DP sockets include the CU9000, CL9BC and FPR9000PCG; the SN9000S and CL9919MBB are single pole (SP). DP switching isolates the plugged-in appliance more completely when the socket is off.

Output varies by model: the CL9919MBB gives 18W over USB A+C, the CU9930 30W over dual USB-C, and the SN9003, CL9945MBB and SFR9945AT 45W. Dual USB-A models share lower currents, such as 2.1A on the CV91PCG and 2.4A on the CL9224PCW. Check the charging rating of the phone, tablet or laptop against the socket.

A low-power socket for shavers and toothbrush chargers, built for use in a bathroom. The Knightsbridge CS89BC, CS89BCG and CL89PC are dual voltage (115/230V) shaver sockets rated 20VA and IP41, and the CS89BC lists EN 61558. The SF8909PCG adds dual USB A+C charging to a shaver socket.

A 5A round-pin socket to BS 546 is usually wired on the lighting circuit, so floor and table lamps switch on with the room light switch. Knightsbridge 5A unswitched sockets include the CL5ABC in brushed chrome, the CS5AAB in antique brass, the SF5AMB in matt black and the CU5U in white anti-microbial thermoset resin.

One plate that combines a 45A double pole switch isolating the cooker circuit with a 13A socket, typically for a kettle or other worktop appliance. Examples include the CL83MNBC in brushed chrome, the FPR83MNPB in polished brass and the SN8333W in white, and the neon indicators on models such as the CS83MNBCG show when the circuit is on.

Weatherproof sockets rated for outdoor use, such as the Mercury 429.868UK (IP54), the 429.917UK and 429.918UK (IP55) and the Knightsbridge OP9KW smart outdoor socket (IP66). The Mercury 429.919UK combines a switch and socket with M20 cable glands. Protect an outdoor socket with an RCD and keep its cover closed when not in use.

They bring power to a point away from the walls, such as a meeting table, kitchen island or worktop. The FPR7UMB and FPR9UPBW are 13A unswitched floor sockets, the SK9909BN is an IP54 pop-up socket with dual USB A+C and a 2m cable, and the SKR3 is a recessed 13A socket with dual USB A+C.

Yes, with a smart socket or plug. The Knightsbridge SN9KW is a 13A double Wi-Fi socket with schedules and power monitoring in its app, the OP9KW an IP66 outdoor version, and the CU9R a double socket switched by an RF key fob remote. Ajax smart plugs such as the 32632.34.WH1 monitor energy use on an Ajax hub over Jeweller.

Finishes include white, brushed chrome, polished chrome, matt black, stainless steel, antique brass, anthracite, polished brass, smoked bronze and black nickel, with black, grey or white inserts on many metal plates. Plate styles include screwless, flat plate, rounded edge and square edge, so a socket can match the light switches in the same room.